Deciding to LEAP
I’m not sure how this book landed in my hands. I mean, sure, I ordered it and I couldn’t wait to read it, so I downloaded an e-version…and I mentioned it to my friend, Becca, who read it at the same time… and then we began meeting once a week because we are just so enamored by the way big dreams are in motion in our lives….
Still. It’s not the kind of book I normally blog about and even now, I’m wondering if this “counts” as “real” reading to all of my nerdy book friends out there. Will I lose all credibility as a reader?
It doesn’t matter though, because this book — of all the books I read this year — impacted me the most. (Well, the second-most. I read the entire bible this year, so it has the top spot of books that impacted me the most.)
Then today I noticed there’s a launch of a new site just for God-Sized Dreamers — and they’re hosting a link-up. You know what a sucker I am for blogs who encourage people to write and share stories and build a community.
Still. I clicked the “x” on my tab and told myself I don’t have to join every movement that encourages people to write. It’s now 10:49 pm and I’ve already written a blog post today and I already have one for tomorrow, but now I’m writing this one. Because, the truth of the matter is, I’m not sure I’m ready to put words to my dream. Actually, the truth of the matter is I’m a coward. I don’t like being a coward, which is why I’m writing this post at 10:49 pm.
I always thought there were moments in life when God calls people to new journeys. High school graduations. College graduations. Weddings. Empty nests. Retirements. I didn’t really expect a new calling smack-dab in the middle of a successful career while raising young children and writing books.
Apparently God isn’t on a specific time schedule, especially not one I invent.
So here I am, ready to face 2014 with a dream I didn’t even realize I had and a bit of strength and courage to take a step on a path set before me. The risk is greater not to step than it is to remain where I am. This is how I decided 2014 would be the year I decided to leap.
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| 8×10 mixed media canvas I created for my 2014 One Little Word. |
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Ruth, I can't wait to see where “leap” takes you in 2014. I love the canvas you created for leap with wings for the dream in your heart . And now it's time to do some thinking about my OLW for 2014. Have a blessed new year!
When I read your words, I can see how deep your love and faith is. I wish you would see how strong you are. I like that your OLW as a heart with wings. Wishing you all the best with your dream.
I appreciate your courage! I am guilty of 'editing' my reading log to keep up certain appearances (What would my colleagues think if they knew my guilty pleasure was “Love Inspired” Christian romance novels?!?). I have added Holley's book to my TBR list, nerdy or not, and I will be praying that your leap leads to soaring in the year ahead .
Thank you for joining us over at the God-sized Dreams site – I am praying blessings over your writing in the new year! 🙂
Dream big and leap far in 2014!
Ruth,
Your words inspire me as a teacher, a writer and a Christian and it is hard to find all three on one blog. It is not just words you write, it's the way you live your life and the “places” your blog takes me. I wrote about my OLW yesterday and how my OLW for 2013 and 2014 found me. They came from a place where I was led by you. When you get a chance please read my post because I want to show you just how much you REACH others …in ways I am sure you don't even know. This is the second time this week I have been led to Holley's website. I think this is a sign, don't you? Have a blessed New Year!
http://adayinthelifeof19b.blogspot.com/2013/12/2014-one-little-word-reach.html
Ruth,
Can't wait to hear more about your God-sized dream. I want to read this book, because I feel like I need a new God-sized dream for my life! So grateful for your sweet presence in my life! May 2014 hold life's richest blessings!
You inspire. Enough said.
So glad you will LEAP – I say go for it. God is definitely guiding your paths right now. You are in good hands!
I don't think God is ever on our time table, is He? 🙂 It seems His plans for us always bring surprises. I've been to Holley's website a few times now too and just ordered the book. It's waiting for me on my KIndle and I can't wait to read it. I can't wait to see where you leap. I've been struggling with my OLW and it literally “leapt” into my head as I read your post. Now, I'm off to write my own OLW post. Thanks Ruth!
Ruth, your LEAP has already inspired many. Encouraged. Built faith. Started a journey. Thank you for having the faith and courage to LEAP!
“Apparently God isn't on a specific time schedule, especially not one I invent.” . . . isn't THAT the truth?! 🙂 How did I not come across your blog earlier in the GSDT year together? Boy did I miss out! So glad to catch this post on the GodSizedDreams.com link up. Looking forward to many more words from you!
This post is so full of wisdom, energy, and honesty. Your art and writing are beautiful and inspirational!